What happened
On November 27, 2024, at approximately 1319 EST, an experimental amateur-built Bot Journey aircraft, registration N814B, was involved in an accident near Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina. The aircraft was being operated by Airworx LLC as a Part 91 functional test flight originating from Odell Williamson Municipal Airport (60J).
Prior to the accident, the pilot, who was also a light sport aircraft repairman, had been addressing engine issues. The aircraft had recently been fitted with a Rotax 912ULS engine that had been performing poorly. Following a total loss of engine power during ground runs a few days earlier, the pilot had replaced the carburetor floats, installed new spark plugs, and performed maintenance on the cowling and brakes.
On the day of the accident, the pilot performed high-speed taxi checks, noting that all systems were normal and the engine idle was smooth. During the takeoff roll on runway 06, the pilot applied full throttle and observed engine RPM at approximately 5,100. The takeoff proceeded normally until the aircraft reached 200 feet MSL, at which point the engine abruptly stopped without warning or RPM fluctuation. The propeller was noted to be fixed.
In an attempt to remain over the airport, the pilot executed an immediate left turn and pitched forward to maintain a glide speed of 40 mph. Realizing an impact with trees was imminent, the pilot pulled hard aft on the control stick to stall the aircraft in an attempt to minimize impact forces. The pilot sustained one serious injury and did not remember the impact. He was able to exit the aircraft and was later found by two individuals near the edge of the woods.
The investigation
The wreckage of N814B was retained by the NTSB for examination.